NOT even BMW can produce a coupe-convertible replacement for separate roadster and coupe models without gaining weight. Unsurprisingly, the result is a second-generation Z4 that is larger, slower, considerably more expensive and, in most cases, less fuel-efficient than its predecessor. On the flip side is a greater level of safety, security and refinement, more luggage space (at least with the roof up) and new technologies such as iDrive and BMW’s cracking twin-turbo six, which is an additional variant but in effect, for now, replaces the Z4 M Roadster and Coupe. Only time will tell if Australians will warm to the considerably more grown-up Z4.
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BMW Z4 Roadster
Released: April 2006
Ended: April 2009
Family Tree: Z4BMW’s first Z4 Roadster, the E85, replaced the original Z3 in April 2003, before receiving facelift and substantial engine upgrade precisely three years ago in April 2006. The E86 Z4 Coupe joined the range in October 2006, available with only two engines. Like the manual-only Z4 M Roadster, the M Coupe was powered by the 252kW/365Nm 3.2-litre straight six from the E46 M3 Coupe (both of which continue on sale), while the Z4 3.0si Coupe employed the 195kW/31Nm 3.0-litre straight six from the Z4 3.0 Roadster. The latter was also available in 2.5si guise, motivated by a 160kW/250Nm 2.5-litre straight six, also mated to new six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Prices started at around $80,000.
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